Second Opportunity for Kolkata Voters to Secure Their Voting Rights
The Election Commission of India has provided crucial relief for Kolkata residents who missed the initial deadline for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. While the original deadline of December 4 has passed, those who failed to submit their filled enumeration forms will get another opportunity to ensure their names remain on the voter list.
New Process After Draft Publication on December 9
According to Election Commission officials, voters who missed the first deadline will not find their names on the draft electoral list scheduled for publication on December 9. However, they can apply for inclusion between December 9 and the final publication date of February 7. These applicants must fill Form 6, typically used for new voter registrations, and attach Annexure IV containing detailed information.
A senior EC official explained the rationale behind this decision: "It is understandable that many electors will fail to submit the filled SIR form for various reasons. The Election Commission of India always ensures that not a single genuine elector's name is excluded from the list. That's why they will get a second chance to include their names on the revised list."
Key Requirements for Late Applicants
All applicants submitting after December 9 must appear for a hearing conducted by their respective Election Returning Officers (EROs) before their names can be included in the final electoral list. The process requires specific documentation and careful attention to detail.
The lower section of Annexure IV mirrors the original SIR enumeration form, requiring applicants to provide their EPIC numbers (if available) and details of relatives whose names appeared on the voter list following the last SIR conducted in 2002. Crucially, applicants must verify that their relative's name appears on the draft list to be published on December 9.
Both Form 6 and Annexure IV can be submitted online or through physical copies, accompanied by documents from the list issued by the election panel for the SIR. This contrasts with the current revision round where voters weren't required to submit documents with the initial enumeration form.
Regarding EPIC cards, officials noted that while new EPIC numbers are typically generated for every Form 6 application, the specific procedure for this particular case remains uncertain.
Convenience Measures for Voters
To facilitate the process, the Election Commission will organize booth-level camps after December 9 for distribution and submission of various forms. The detailed schedule for these camps will be announced separately, providing additional convenience for Kolkata residents seeking to secure their voting rights.
This extended window demonstrates the Election Commission's commitment to inclusive voter registration while maintaining the integrity of the electoral process through proper verification procedures.
